Free ICE ID Assessments

Following a long cold winter, most Canadians look forward to the hope of the warmer weather that spring brings. The days grow longer, and the temperatures are on the rise. Along with this hope, we get the ice of March. This month brings with it warm melts followed by freezing rain and freezing temperatures overnight. Although perfect patterns for the maple sugar bush; this melt and refreeze can have devastating effects on your roof and inside your home. The biggest worry for homeowners is something known as ice dams. As ice dams begin to melt, the water flow can penetrate the roof cover causing water damage to the attic space, walls and interior of the home.

How does an Ice Dam form?

Heat from the home collects and warms the attic, but not warm the eaves troughs around the home. Snow and ice on the roof begins to melt and heads directly to these cold eaves troughs where it refreezes. As the melting continues, the water has nowhere to drain. It is at this point that it can begin to penetrate the roof itself.

Main Reasons for Forming

• Inadequate soffits or ventilation
• Inadequate or damaged attic insulation
• Air leaks into the attic

Possible Damage

Water damage to insulation, walls, ceilings, floors and foundations can occur. Also there may be structural damage to the roof, attic framing and the eaves troughs.

How to Protect Your Home

• Remove

There are many seasonal maintenance companies trained to carefully remove the ice and snow from your roof. This should be done following any significant snowfall.

• Insulate

Your roof should be adequately insulated to prevent any air leaks in the attic. Any damaged insulation should be removed and replaced, and an increase in insulation may be necessary. This work is completely from the interior of your home so it should be done as soon as possible.

• Seal

Insulation companies can identify and repair any sources of air leaks from the living space into the attic. This should be completed as soon as spring thaw has begun and the roof is free of snow.

• Vent

Professional roofing companies can assess and fix any soffits and roofline vents. You may be required to install additional vents to prevent damage to the roof.

Water damage prevention starts with awareness. You may be eligible for a free assessment to determine if you have an ice dam, and if needed, the simple steps to ensure a smooth spring thaw. This complimentary service could protect you and your home from the devastating effects of water damage due to ice dams.

Don’t hesitate – call your local broker today! Call McDougall Insurance at 1-800-361-0941.